Breast Surgery and Teen Patients

April 21, 2008 -

According to statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 300,000 plastic surgery procedures were performed on teens in 2003. Breast augmentation accounted for less than 5% of the total. What is the right age for breast surgery?

The Issues Relating to Age

Female breasts may begin to develop as young as nine years old. The breasts may not reach full development until early twenties.  The age for social, emotional and overall modification to adult cognitive processing varies among teens. Thus, the ability for a teen to understand the risks and implications associated with breast surgery must be carefully evaluated before undergoing breast surgery. In addition, the advantages of breast surgery must be understood by both parents and teens.

Breast Augmentation: Breast augmentation for young women who have small and/or unshapely breasts can enhance appearance, provide more comfort in clothing and build on self-image. FDA approved saline implants are appropriate at 18 years of age. Mentor and Allergan silicone gel implants may be applicable for women as young as 22 years of age.

Breast Deformities and Breast Asymetry: Teens living with breast deformities, including, breasts at full development that are unequal in size may feel uncomfortable in clothing and can be embarrassing. The best age to improve breast deformities or asymmetry is dependant upon the age of full breast development and emotional maturity.

Breast Reconstruction: Breast reconstruction required due disease or trauma is suitable for any age. Yet, saline implants are the only form of implant that is approved by the FDA for any age. Silicone gel implants manufactured by Mentor and Allergan may be used at 22 years of age and older.

Breast Reduction: Life for teens with oversized breasts can be physically and emotionally challenging. They may express discomfort and difficulty with daily activities such as exercising or gym class. They may complain of back, shoulder, and breathing difficulties. With an overemphasis on image, girls in this category can be embarrassed and teased by others. Breast reduction may be performed on teens 15 yrs of age and older, providing maturity and criteria for an informed decision is met. 

Breast Revision Surgery: Breast revision to improve the outcome of a previous breast surgery may occur at any age. However, in the case of breast augmentation requirements, any age relates to FDA approved saline implants. Silicone gel implants manufactured by Mentor and Allergan are not permitted until 22 years of age.

Nipple Deformities:  Nipples that are protruding may be uncomfortable for a teen. Likewise, inverted nipples can be embarrassing. Nipple surgery at full maturation of the breasts can be enhancing and relieving for teens. Nipple surgery is most appropriate when the teen has reached maturity.  

Source: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/breastimplants/addsources.html